Relationship of plasma S100B and MBP with brain damage in preterm infants

Wei Zhou1, Wei Li2, Liu-Hong Qu3

  • 1Department of Neonatology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University Guangzhou 510120, Guangdong Province, China.

Insights

Plasma levels of S100B and MBP are elevated in preterm infants with brain damage, particularly periventricular leukomalacia (PVL). These biomarkers may help predict early brain injury in vulnerable newborns.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Neurology
  • Biomarkers in Perinatal Medicine
  • Neurodevelopmental Pediatrics

Background:

  • Preterm infants (<34 weeks gestation) are at high risk for brain injury, including periventricular-intraventricuar hemorrhage (PVH-IVH) and periventricular leukomalacia (PVL).
  • Early detection and prediction of brain damage are crucial for timely intervention and improved outcomes in preterm neonates.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between plasma levels of S100B and myelin basic protein (MBP) and the occurrence of PVH-IVH and PVL in preterm infants.
  • To assess the diagnostic and prognostic value of S100B and MBP as biomarkers for early brain injury in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 312 preterm infants (<34 weeks gestation) was monitored.
  • Plasma S100B and MBP levels were measured at multiple time points post-birth (24h, 3rd, 7th, 14th day).
  • Cranial ultrasound and MRI were used to diagnose brain injury (no brain damage, PVH-IVH, PVL).

Main Results:

  • Significantly elevated S100B levels were observed in PVH-IVH and PVL groups compared to controls within 24 hours and on day 3.
  • Plasma S100B levels remained significantly higher in the PVL group compared to both control and PVH-IVH groups on days 7 and 14.
  • Significantly elevated MBP levels were consistently found in the PVL group compared to control and PVH-IVH groups from 24 hours up to day 14.
  • S100B showed a negative correlation with gestational age in the no brain damage group.

Conclusions:

  • Plasma S100B and MBP levels increase significantly in preterm infants with brain damage, especially within 24 hours of birth.
  • PVL is associated with higher and more prolonged elevations of S100B and MBP compared to PVH-IVH.
  • These biomarkers hold clinical significance for predicting early brain damage and PVL in preterm infants.

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